In a trauma assessment, what should be checked alongside pulse in the PMS assessment?

In a trauma assessment, the PMS evaluation stands for Pulse, Motor, and Sensory assessment. When checking for pulse, it is essential to assess sensation as well, which provides important information about the status of the neurological function in the injured area. This is critical because the presence or absence of sensation can indicate whether the nerves are intact and functioning correctly.

Sensation evaluates the patient’s response to stimuli, which can help determine if there are any significant nerve injuries. It is particularly vital in cases where a fracture or dislocation may impact the spinal cord or peripheral nerves, as this can lead to loss of feeling or sensation in the affected limb. Therefore, checking sensation alongside pulse is vital for a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s condition during a trauma assessment.